The winter season is full of holiday festivities and gorgeous scenery, but all that snow and ice can wreak havoc on your travel schedule. What should you do if you plan to drive in the harsh weather? We've got our top five winter driving tips to help you drive safely and confidently!
Plan Ahead
Keep an eye on that forecast as you head into the colder months. Before that blizzard arrives, you'll want to make sure that your car is in top condition. Is your check engine light on? Are your wipers working properly? Are your tires in good shape? Snow, ice, and cold weather only make your auto issues worse. Schedule an appointment with the folks at Chicago Northside Toyota to ensure that you spot any problems ahead of time.
Pack Smart
There are some wintertime must-have items that most drivers keep in the cabin, like an ice scraper or even a travel snow shovel. But, have you considered packing an emergency kit? You can find pre-made kits at the shop, as well as online, but you can also make your own. Fill a bag with helpful items like blankets, shelf-stable food, jumper cables, flashlights, and whatever else you want. Don't forget to include a list of emergency numbers.
Take it Slow
While snow tires and antilock brakes make a big difference, it's still a drag to drive on snowy and icy roads. These slick road conditions hinder your traction, so handling becomes quite a bit more difficult. It's harder to stop, it's harder to build up speed, and it's harder to anticipate the moves of your fellow driver. So take it slow when you are driving, and leave plenty of space between you and other cars on the road.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Even if you've gotten a thorough inspection by our technicians, don't forget to check your vehicle periodically for wear and tear. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Keep your tires properly inflated to ensure that you have the best possible grip on the roads.
- Avoid dropping below a half tank of gas to avoid potential gas line freezing.
- Check your fluids and make sure that you use the recommended formulas for cold weather. Ask our technicians for help!
Know When to Stay in
Though it's very possible to drive safely during snow, sleet, and ice, why take the risk if you can avoid it? Consider delaying that trip to the grocery store if the roads look treacherous. Sometimes it's easier to reschedule than to call for towing!
